Jim’s Cover Pass : Why the soft skills matter when hiring welders

Hiring managers a metal fabrication shops should also be evaluating their soft skills like compatibility, communication, and professionalism during interviews. Getty Images

Q: The people we hire at our company must pass a welding test to assess their skill level. However, several of them end up being released after they get hired because of their poor work ethic. How can we tackle this problem head-on?

A: “Hire for soft skills and compatibility, and train for the required skill.” That’s a statement we continue to hear more and more in our industry thanks to the very situation your company finds itself in time and again with new hires.

With that said, exactly what are those soft skills that you should be looking for during the interview process? First and foremost, you want individuals with a strong work ethic. What does that entail? A good work ethic includes taking responsibility for your actions, taking initiative to get things done, showing integrity, paying attention to details, and displaying a commitment to the company.

Punctuality and time management are also important traits to look for in a potential employee and can be a sign of a very good or very poor work ethic. It’s not enough that they strive to be on time for work, it’s about arriving early and being ready to go once their shift starts. I have watched many employees clock in and then get a cup of coffee, chat with co-workers, and even use the restroom before they actually start being productive.

Time management includes meeting production deadlines as well as managing meetings and appointments. Individuals who can balance work priorities with personal appointments show responsibility, which can make them valuable members of your team.

You should stress to a potential employee that the ability to work well with others and be a productive part of a team environment are almost as important as being a good welder. Every company and department has a group mentality that, at first, can be difficult for new employees to understand. Stress to them the importance of staying positive and maintaining a good attitude as they learn and adapt to their new surroundings.

During the interview process, it is a good idea to look beyond a person’s skill set. Discuss with them your company’s views on work ethic, responsibility, and commitment. You should also address the company and department dynamics along with what it takes to be part of that team. It usually doesn’t take very many days for seasoned employees to provide feedback on the new hire.

With continued training and emphasis on a good work ethic and these soft skills, along with positive feedback, these new employees may just become longtime members of your team.